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Montepulciano

Montepulciano is one of Italy's most popular red grapes, primarily found in central Italian region of Abruzzo. It is a dark skinned variety with intense colour and a characteristically bold, tannic taste.

Colour, Aromas and Taste Profile

Montepulciano's thick-skinned berries produce a deep ruby-red coloured wine. Its aromas are typically fruity, with notes of blackberry, black cherry, and sometimes a hint of plum. On the palate, it offers concentrated flavours of dark fruit, earth, and leather, with moderate tannins and soft acidity.

Fresh Montepulciano grapes on the vine

Regional Features & Food Pairings

Montepulciano is most widely planted in the central and southern regions of Italy, where it is grown in Abruzzo, Marche, Molise, and Puglia. Montepulciano is a fairly easy grape to cultivate, and resistent to heat. In Abruzzo, Montepulciano is traditionally made as a single varietal wine and is aged in large oak barrels. In Abruzzo, the wines are typically full-bodied and tannic, while those from the Marche region are lighter and more approachable. The finest example of Montepulciano is found in the mountainous region of Teramo in Abruzzo, with complex ripe fruit characters, firm tannins and balanced acidity. Those wines can be aged pleasantly. Aside from red wines, Montepulciano is also used for a fresh, fruity, deep-colored rosé wine in Abruzzo, called Cerasuolo d'Abruzzo. Montepulciano pairs well with a variety of foods, from charcuterie and hard cheeses to roasted red meats and tomato-based sauces.

Foods to pair with Montepulciano:

Beef
Game
Sausage
Smoky
Light meat
Salad
Fun Fact about Montepulciano
Despite of having same name with the town of Montepulciano in Tuscany, the grape is not commonly found in the region, nor is it permitted for the Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.

Top Wines with Montepulciano

Bottle of Piccini Memoro Rosso from search results

Piccini Memoro Rosso

Piccini

User Rating:
3.8
Most Reviewed
Expert Rating:
3.8
Piccini Memoro Rosso is a captivating red wine. Memoro Rosso is a blend of four different grape varieties from four different corners of the country. 40% primitivo from Puglia, 30% montepulciano from Abruzzo, 20% nero d'Avola from Sicily and 10% merlot from Veneto. The wine is crafted with meticulous attention to detail. The style of Piccini Memoro Rosso is characterized by its rich flavors, elegant structure, and smooth tannins. With its enticing aromas and lingering finish, this wine is sure to delight wine enthusiasts seeking a memorable and enjoyable experience.
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Food Pairing:
Pork
Beef
Vegetable
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$11.99
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1 NV Vintage Available
Bottle of Farnese Fantini Montepulciano d'Abruzzo from search results

Farnese Fantini Montepulciano d'Abruzzo

Farnese

User Rating:
3.7
Most Reviewed
Expert Rating:
4.0
Farnese Fantini Montepulciano d'Abruzzo is a delightful red wine that showcases the best of the Abruzzo region in Italy. Produced with care and expertise, this wine is made from the Montepulciano grape variety, which thrives in the region's unique vineyard features. The wine is crafted using traditional winemaking techniques, resulting in a well-balanced and expressive style. With its deep ruby color and aromas of ripe dark fruits, this Montepulciano d'Abruzzo offers a rich and velvety palate, with smooth tannins and a lingering finish. It is a versatile wine that pairs well with a variety of dishes, making it a great choice for any occasion.
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Food Pairing:
Pork
Beef
Cheese
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$12.35
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4 Vintages Available
Bottle of Cantina Zaccagnini Montepulciano d'Abruzzo (Il Vino dal Tralcetto Riserva) from search results

Cantina Zaccagnini Montepulciano d'Abruzzo (Il Vino dal Tralcetto Riserva)

Cantina Zaccagnini

User Rating:
3.8
Most Reviewed
Expert Rating:
4.0
Cantina Zaccagnini Montepulciano d'Abruzzo (Il Vino dal Tralcetto Riserva) is a highly regarded wine from the Abruzzo region of Italy. This wine is produced by Cantina Zaccagnini, a renowned winery known for their commitment to quality. The vineyards where the grapes are grown are situated in the picturesque hills of Abruzzo, benefiting from the region's ideal climate and soil conditions. The winemaking process involves careful selection of the best grapes, followed by a meticulous fermentation and aging process. The result is a rich and full-bodied wine with a deep ruby color and complex flavors of dark fruits, spices, and earthy notes. This wine is a true representation of the Montepulciano d'Abruzzo appellation and is sure to impress wine enthusiasts with its exceptional quality and character.
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Food Pairing:
Pork
Beef
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$14.99
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5 Vintages Available
Bottle of Gran Appasso Rosso from search results

Gran Appasso Rosso

Gran Appasso

User Rating:
3.9
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Expert Rating:
4.0
Gran Appasso Rosso is a deep and complex Italian red wine from the Campania region. It's made from the Aglianico grape variety, which is known for its intense, dark fruit flavors and powerful tannins. On the nose, the Gran Appasso Rosso features notes of ripe blackberries, dark cherries, and dried herbs, as well as hints of tobacco, leather, and licorice. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied with a velvety texture, and flavors of blackcurrant, blackberry, and spice. The tannins are firm but not overpowering, and the finish is long and complex. Overall, the Gran Appasso Rosso is a bold and intense Italian red wine that will pair well with strong and flavorful dishes.
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Food Pairing:
Beef
Pork
Pasta
Vegetable
Cheese
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$12.96
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4 Vintages Available
Bottle of Masciarelli Montepulciano d'Abruzzo from search results

Masciarelli Montepulciano d'Abruzzo

Masciarelli

User Rating:
3.7
Most Reviewed
Expert Rating:
4.5
Masciarelli's Montepulciano d'Abruzzo is a red wine that embodies the fresh and fragrant characteristics that are the hallmark of the region's wine production. As part of the classic collection from this renowned Abruzzo winery, it represents the youngest and most immediate version of this bold and robust grape variety. The wine is a classic and quintessential expression of the region, with pleasant fruity notes and delicate hints of spice. It is an excellent choice to pair with the flavorful first courses of Abruzzo cuisine, or simply to savor the authentic and genuine essence of Montepulciano.
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Food Pairing:
Pork
Beef
Cheese
Pasta
Vegetable
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$8.99
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4 Vintages Available